A hot summer and a car that blows warm air is not just uncomfortable, it can make a drive from enjoyable to unpleasant very quickly. If your air conditioner is not as cold as it used to be, it may be time for a regas.
Car air conditioning regas is one of the most common maintenance services for car owners but is often overlooked. Here we explain what an aircon regas is, the signs your vehicle needs one and what happens during the service so you know exactly what to expect before booking.
What Is a Car Aircon Regas?
A car aircon regas (also known as AC regas or refrigerant recharge) is the process of removing the old refrigerant gas from your car’s air conditioning system and replacing it with fresh refrigerant to the manufacturer’s recommended level.
Refrigerant is the substance that makes your air conditioning system cool your car’s interior air. The refrigerant slowly leaks out over time through small permeations in the hoses, seals and connections in the system. If the level is too low then the air conditioning system can no longer cool the air.
Proper regas service adds more than just more gas. The qualified technician will remove any residual refrigerant, test the system for leaks and recharge it with the correct amount of refrigerant. This helps keep the system up and running efficiently and safely.
Signs Your Car Air Conditioning May Need a Regas
Most air conditioning systems will give you warning signs that something is wrong before they break down completely. If you notice any of the following, it might be time to have your system inspected.
One of the most common signs is that the air coming from the vents is not as cold as it once was. This is usually a sign that the refrigerant is low.
Weak airflow also indicates trouble. It can sometimes be a blocked cabin filter, but it can also be a sign that the compressor or air conditioning system itself is a problem.
If you get musty or foul smells coming from the vents, it may be a sign of bacteria or moulds build-up in the evaporator or ventilation system. This can happen if the air-conditioning has not been serviced for some time.
If you hear weird noises when you turn on the air conditioner, chances are the compressor, belt, or other parts are deteriorating and should be inspected.
If water is collecting inside the cabin it indicates a blocked drain hose and if not remedied can lead to mould growth and electrical problems.
If you only feel cold air when the fan is turned on the highest setting, this could be an indication of low refrigerant levels.
If you see any of these symptoms, it is best to have the system checked out early to avoid more serious damage to components such as the compressor.
What Happens During a Car Aircon Regas?
Regassing an air conditioner is a professional job done in a number of steps to make sure the cooling system is working properly.
The technician will start by performing a pressure test and leak inspection, checking the system for refrigerant leaks and examining major components such as hoses, fittings and the compressor.
The technician then checks related components and identifies any issues that could affect system performance. Any parts such as filters, hoses or other components that need attention will be identified before the regas is complete.
The system is checked, the remaining refrigerant is removed safely and the system is evacuated to remove moisture and to verify that no leaks are present. The new refrigerant is then added according to the manufacturer’s specifications. The air conditioning is then tested one last time to ensure it is cooling correctly.
Most regas services take about an hour to complete, provided no additional repairs are needed.
How Often Should You Regas Your Car Aircon?
For air conditioning systems to run at their best, they need regular servicing. Many vehicles will need an air conditioning service every few years, although this can depend on the vehicle and how often the system is used.
In cooler months, running your air conditioning for short periods each week will help maintain seals and keep the system running efficiently.
Car Air Conditioning Regas in Newcastle
If your car’s air conditioning isn’t working like it used to, getting it checked out sooner rather than later can help prevent more serious problems down the road.
Our experienced technicians at A to Z Automotive Services in Cardiff, Newcastle will inspect, service and regas your vehicle’s air conditioning system to ensure it delivers reliable cooling when you need it most. If your aircon has been losing performance gradually or you have noticed warning signs, a professional inspection can help you regain comfort in your drive.
